Melissa Tirpak Named Masonic Teacher of the Year

MARLBOROUGH, MA—The Masonic Lodge has an annual tradition of recognizing “the teacher of the year” from the Marlborough Public Schools, and this year is no exception.

The selection process is extensive and involves all the Marlborough Public Schools putting forth their “best teachers” to the district’s leadership team, said the announcement. From there, the top finalists are identified and interviewed by the members of the United Brethren of Masons.

Melissa Tirpak, secone grade teacher at Francis J. Kane Elementary School, was chosen as the 2017 Masonic Teacher of the Year. The Masons, Superintendent Greulich, Mayor Vigeant, and Kane Principal Wendy Stanley surprised Tirpak at Kane school with balloons and flowers on May 3.

“We are very proud of Melissa and her endless dedication to the students at Kane School,” stated Kane Principal Wendy Stanley in a statement. “Our number one intention is to honor all educators in our city,” said Joseph Delano, Master of the United the Masonic Lodge. “This recognition event is but one example of the great things our city does.”

Tirpak has been teaching kindergarten through second grade at the Kane Elementary School for 16 consecutive years.

“I am truly honored and grateful to have been selected as the ‘Teacher of the Year,’” said Tirpak in a statement. “I love being with my students every day and love working with my colleagues—we make a great team!”

Karen Briggs, PreK teacher at the Marlborough Early Childhood Center and Isabel Nowlan, English Learner teacher at the Raymond C. Richer Elementary School will also be honored at the Masons awards ceremony on May 17.

Photo submitted, Marlborough public schools